EP2110338B1 - Flexible Package with Tearing Means - Google Patents
Flexible Package with Tearing Means Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2110338B1 EP2110338B1 EP08103521A EP08103521A EP2110338B1 EP 2110338 B1 EP2110338 B1 EP 2110338B1 EP 08103521 A EP08103521 A EP 08103521A EP 08103521 A EP08103521 A EP 08103521A EP 2110338 B1 EP2110338 B1 EP 2110338B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- side wall
- package
- seam
- weakness
- line
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/52—Details
- B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
- B65D75/5827—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion
- B65D75/5833—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion for tearing out a portion of the wall
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/52—Details
- B65D75/54—Cards, coupons, or other inserts or accessories
- B65D75/56—Handles or other suspension means
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/07—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles
Definitions
- the object of the application relates to a package suitable as a flexible wrapping especially for diapers that are placed in the package in a consolidated form in one or more series.
- An opening can be made in one side wall of the package manually for individual removal of the package contents.
- a flexible package with an opening feature is disclosed e.g. in US 2006/0021894 Al .
- the opening feature is facilitated in a side wall and, upon opening, provides access to the articles contained in the package.
- the opening can be initiated by using an aperture.
- the package will tear open along lines of weakness.
- the lines of weakness extend to an upper edge of the package, while the aperture is arranged somewhat below this edge. Upon opening, the complete aperture is torn downwardly.
- the present invention to provide a package with an opening feature, wherein the articles or parts of the articles contained in the package do not fall out of the package after opening but are contained in the package. For example, if the articles are a multiplicity of diapers, the diapers should not fall out of the package after opening.
- the present invention provides a flexible package being capable and being adapted to contain a multiplicity of articles, as defined in claim 1.
- the package comprises a plurality of walls, including first and second opposing side walls.
- Each of the side walls has side seams and each of the side walls has an upper and a lower edge.
- At least a first gusset is formed in at least the first side wall, whereby the first gusset comprises an internal panel and an external panel, together forming a pocket.
- the at least first side wall further comprises a tearing means being at least partially formed in or through the external panel.
- the tearing means is adapted to create an opening in the first side wall.
- the opening is confined by at least an upper section of the internal panel and by at least a lateral section of the side wall.
- At least one lateral edge of the upper section of the internal panel is at least partially bonded to an upper edge of the lateral section of the side wall. Further, the lateral section and the upper section form a frame, which is adapted to retain the articles inside the package after creation of the opening.
- the present invention further provides, in accordance with claim 13, a method of manufacturing a flexible package comprising a plurality of walls, including first and second opposing side walls, wherein at least a first gusset is formed in the first side wall and wherein the first gusset comprises an internal panel being covered by an external panel, together forming a pocket. Further, the first side wall comprises a tearing means being at least partially formed in or through the external panel.
- the method of manufacturing comprises the steps of:
- the twofold portion comprises two layers and the fourfold portion comprises four layers.
- the outer layers of the fourfold portion extend into the two layers of the twofold portion.
- at least one line of weakness is introduced in each layer of the fourfold portion.
- the line of weakness forms a tearing means being adapted to provide an opening in the side wall.
- the opening is confined by at least an upper section of the internal panel and by at least a lateral section of the side wall.
- the upper and lateral sections form a frame, which is adapted to retain the articles inside the package after creation of the opening.
- At least one outer layer of the fourfold portion is at least partially bonded with an adjacent inner layer of the fourfold portion for generating the frame.
- Diaper refers to absorbent articles generally worn by infants and incontinent persons about the lower torso.
- the diaper may be fastened onto the wearer using tapes or, alternatively, the diaper may have side seams, which are fastened together - both permanently or refastenably- such that the diaper is applied onto the wear like a conventional underwear (i.e. the user will put his legs through the respective leg openings and the diaper is then pulled up to its final position).
- Comprise is an open ended term that specifies the presence of what follows, e.g. a component but does not preclude the presence of other features, elements, steps or components known in the art, or disclosed herein. However, the presence of additional other features, elements, steps or components is not required at the terms “comprise” “comprising,” and “comprises” thus also encompasses the terms “consisting of” and “essentially consisting of”.
- the flexible package 1 of the present invention may be rectangular, and may comprise thermoplastic material. Further, the flexible package 1 comprises a plurality of walls, typically two opposing, first and second side walls 2, 3, a front wall, a back wall as well as a top wall 4 an a bottom wall.
- Each side wall 2, 3 has an upper edge 6, 8 lying adjacent a top wall 4 and further has a lower edge 7, 9 lying adjacent the bottom wall of the package 1.
- Each side wall 2, 3 also has two opposing side edges 17, 18 lying adjacent the front and back wall of the package, respectively.
- the material of the filled package 1 is folded over from the front and back wall to the side walls 2, 3 of the package 1. Also, the material at least from the top wall 4 is folded over to the side walls 2, 3. However, also the material from the bottom wall may be folded over to the side walls 2, 3.
- Each side wall 2, 3 comprises a respective side seam 19, 39 to provide a closed package 1.
- the side seams 19, 39 are essentially extending from the upper edges 6, 8 of the side walls 2, 3 towards the lower edges 7, 9 of the side walls 2, 3.
- At least one gusset 12 is formed in the first side wall 2 adjacent the upper edge 6 of the side wall 2.
- the gusset 12 comprises an internal panel 13, which is overlaid by an external panel 14.
- the internal panel 13 and the external panel 14 may have the same dimensions and the same shape and may therefore be coextensive.
- the external panel 14 may be smaller in width than the internal panel 13 because parts of the external panel have been removed.
- the internal panel 13 is at least partially covered by the external panel 14, e.g. in a region including the side seam 19.
- the gusset 12 of the first side wall 2 may be at least partially shaped in the form of a triangle pointing down towards the lower edge 7 of the side wall 2.
- the gusset 12 formed by the internal panel 13 being at least partially overlapped by the external panel 14.
- the external panel 14 is two-ply and therefore comprises two layers of material being folded onto each other, the fold line extending adjacent the upper edge 6 of the side wall and defines the upper edge of the external panel 14.
- the external panel 14 has lateral side edges 29, 30 which may extend substantially parallel to the side edges 17, 18 of the side wall 2.
- the upper edge of the external panel 14 may be smaller in width than the side wall 2.
- the internal panel 13 is only partially overlaid by the external panel 14, for example in a region of the side wall comprising the side seam 19.
- the upper portion of the external panel 14 as illustrated in figure 1 provides a kind of tongue- or flap-like appendix serving as a tearing means 11.
- a user intending to open the package 1 may grasp the external panel 14 from above and/or from the side edges 29, 30 and may exert a tearing force directed towards the lower edge 7 of the side wall, thereby disrupting the internal panel 13 and possibly also the external panel 14 and forming an opening 35 for removing the articles being disposed inside the package 1.
- the opening may form along at least one line of weakness 15, 16 extending in the side wall 2.
- There may be provided a first 15 and a second line of weakness 16, each of which extending adjacent the opening 35 to be created in the package 1 and serving as a weakened structure in the material of the package.
- the extension and shape of the lines of weakness 15, 16 define at least a part of the shape and geometry of the opening 35, because the lines of weakness 15, 16 after disruption of the material coincide with at least one edge of the opening 35.
- a third line of weakness 20 connecting the first and second line of weakness 15, 16 and extending in a portion of the internal panel 13 being.covered or overlaid by the external panel 14.
- the flexible package 1 may comprise a multiplicity of articles 33, 34.
- the package I of the present invention may be used for accommodating a multiplicity of diapers.
- the diapers 33, 34 may be folded and the multiplicity of folded diapers may be arranged in one or more rows within the package.
- a diaper typically has a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis.
- One end portion of the diaper is configured as a front waist region of the diaper.
- the opposite end portion is configured as a back waist region of the diaper.
- An intermediate portion of the diaper is configured as a crotch region, which extends longitudinally between the front and back waist regions.
- the crotch region is that portion of the diaper which, when the diaper is worn, is generally positioned between the wearer's legs.
- the transverse axis is typically in the crotch region of the diaper.
- the diaper In a two-folded diaper, the diaper is folded in the crotch region along its transverse axis or near its transverse axis. In the folded diaper, the front waist region is lying adjacent the back waist region and the front and back waist region are substantially coextensive.
- the diaper may be tri-folded, whereby one of the front or back waist regions is folded over onto the crotch region where after the remaining waist region is folded over onto the first folded waist region.
- the folded diaper comprises two major surfaces.
- the first major surface comprises the front waist region of the diaper and a portion of the crotch region
- the second major surface comprises the back waist region of the diaper and the remaining portion of the crotch portion.
- a tri-folded diaper has two major surfaces. When placed into the flexible package, the major surfaces should face towards the side walls 2 of the package 1.
- the diapers should be arranged such that in each row, major surfaces 33, 34 face towards the side walls 2 of the package.
- the folded diapers arranged in the package 1 have an upper part lying towards the top wall of the package and a lower part lying towards the bottom wall.
- one side wall 2 comprises opening and tearing means whereas the other oppositely located side wall 3 comprises gripping means 45 for lifting and transporting the package 1.
- the gripping means is only optional.
- the opening 35 may be created by tearing down the tearing means 11 or the tongue- or flap-like external panel 14. While the external panel 14 and the associated tearing means 11 are torn off or torn down, the various lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 are disrupted and become disassembled. The disruption of the various lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 leads to the creation of the opening 35 as depicted in Figure 2 .
- the third line of weakness 20 separates the lower edge 21 of an upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 from the upper edge 22 of the internal panel 13.
- the third line of weakness 20 is part of the tearing means 11, which is torn down for creating the opening 35.
- the piece, which is torn down will be referred to as tear-off portion 10.
- the edge 21 may comprise a notch 23 corresponding with a peak portion 24 of the edge 22 of the tearing means 11.
- the tear-off portion 10 also comprises a lateral side edge 26 which coincides with a side edge 25 of a lateral section 37 of the side wall 2.
- a lateral side edge 26 which coincides with a side edge 25 of a lateral section 37 of the side wall 2.
- the other lateral edge of the tear-off portion or the tearing means 11 having a lateral edge coinciding with an inner edge of a lateral section 38 of the side wall 2.
- the opening 35 as illustrated in figure 2 is confined by an upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 and by at least one, typically by two lateral sections 37, 38 of the side wall 2.
- the two lateral sections 37, 38 may be symmetrically arranged.
- the upper and lateral section(s) 36, 37, 38 form a frame adapted to retain the articles, e.g. the diapers 33, 34 inside the package 1 after creation of the opening 35.
- the tear-off motion maybe directed downwards to the lower edge 7 of the side wall 2.
- the opening 35 may also extend to other walls of the package 1. Then, at least a part of the tear-off portion 10 extends to one or more other walls, for instance to the front, back, top or bottom wall of the package 1.
- the opening 35 may be asymmetric in shape and may also be asymmetrically arranged with respect to the overall geometry and symmetry of the side wall 2.
- a retaining frame comprising an upper section and at least one lateral section can be provided.
- the frame helps to ensure, that the articles 33, 34 comprised in the package 1 remain within the package 1 and do not fall out.
- the upper part of the articles, e.g. the diapers 33, 34, is maintained in the package 1 by the frame.
- the frame may comprise two lateral sections 37, 38, being at least partially bonded with the upper section 36.
- the upper section 36 then connects the two lateral sections 37, 38 and leading to a frame comprising three frame sections.
- the width of the opening 35 is governed by the lateral size and lateral extension of the lateral section 37, 38.
- the two lateral sections 37, 38 may further be symmetric in shape and geometry. Alternatively, their overall shape and lateral extension may vary.
- the spacing between the first and second lines of weakness 15, 16 and the width of the tear-off portion depends on the size of the articles 33, 34 to be disposed in the flexible package 1. Also, if for example the package 1 comprises a multiplicity of folded diapers 33, 34, the size of the opening 35 will also depend on the number of diaper rows comprised in the package 1.
- the spacing between the lines of weakness 15, 16 will typically be smaller compared to a package 1 comprising two rows of diapers arranged next to each other, as illustrated in figure 2 .
- the first diaper 33, 34 of each row directly faces towards the opening 35 with one of its major surfaces.
- the package 1 of the present invention may also contain three or four rows of articles, such as the diapers 33, 34.
- two rows are arranged with one of their side portions next to each other while two more rows are arranged similarly below or above the first pair of rows.
- the tear-off portion, the tearing means 11 and associated first and second lines of weakness 15, 16 may extend further downward towards the lower edge 7 of the package 1.
- An opening 35 being smaller in width or height may be torn open first to have access to the upper two rows of diapers.
- the opening can be enlarged by exerting.a further tear-off force to the tear-off portion in such a way, that also lower portions of the lines of weakness are disrupted and become disassembled along their entire length.
- a package 1 containing four rows of diapers may comprise two separate lines of weakness, wherein the upper line of weakness may be associated with the tearing means 11.
- a lower and separate line of weakness may be implemented into the side wall 2 independently from the tearing means 11 and also independent and separate from the upper line of weakness. If the package 1 comprises only one row of diapers, the spacing between laterally spaced lines of weaknesses 15, 16 confining the opening 35 to the left and to the right, may be smaller than the width of the article's major surface, which faces towards the opening 35.
- one of the diaper's major surfaces faces towards the opening 35 and the side portions of the diaper's major surface may be retained in the package 1 by the lateral sections 37, 38 of the side wall 2, each of which extending from a line of weakness 16 to a side edge 18 and from a line of weakness 15 to the side edge 17 of the side wall 2, respectively.
- the spacing between the lines of weakness 15, 16 will typically be smaller than the width of both rows of diapers 33, 34 taken together. However, the spacing between the first and second line of weakness 15, 16 may be larger than the width of a major surface of one diaper 33, 34.
- the side portion of the diapers major surface lying adjacent the side edge 17, 18 of the side wall 2 and facing towards the opening 35 may be retained in the package 1 by the lateral section 37, 38 of the side wall 2.
- the other side portion of the diapers major surface lying adjacent a diaper 33, 34 of a neighbouring row of diapers may be retained in the package I mainly due to friction forces between the diapers 33, 34 of neighbouring rows.
- At least one lateral edge of the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 is abutting against an upper edge of the at least one lateral section 37, 38 of the first side wall 2.
- the at least one lateral edge of the upper edge section 36 and the upper edge of the at least one lateral section 37, 38 form abutting edges.
- a juncture connecting the upper section 36 and the at least one lateral section 37, 38 along at least a part of their abutting edges may comprise a spot-like shape.
- the juncture may also comprise an elongated shape, bended or straight shape.
- the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 and at least a lateral section 37, 38 of the side wall 2 are bonded along a seam 31, 32 extending from the opening 35 towards an edge 6, 17, 18 of the first side wall 2.
- the seam may extend towards the corner formed between the upper edge 6 and one of the side edges 17, 18.
- the juncture between the upper section 36 and the at least one lateral section 37, 38 may also comprise a point-like shape or structure.
- at least one bond point is required.
- the seam 31, 32 may extend over the entire length of the abutting edges. Alternatively, the seam 31, 32 may also extend only across a section of the length of the abutting edges.
- the seam 31, 32 or the juncture between the lateral sections 37, 38 and upper section 36 of the side wall 2 typically extends in direct vicinity of the opening 35 to be created in the side wall, e.g. the seam or juncture extends only along up to 25% , or up to 40% of the length of the abutting edges (starting from the opening). Alternatively, the seam or juncture may extend along the whole length of the abutting edges.
- the seam 31, 32 may extend at an angle of between 40 to 50 degrees, or from 42° to 48°, or 45°, upper with respect to the upper edge 6 of the side wall 2.
- the upper section 36 and the at least one lateral section(s) 37, 38 form a mitered joint.
- the seam 31, 32 then extends from a location on the edge of the opening 35 defined by a crossing point of the lower edge 21 of the upper section 36 and the side edge 25 of a lateral section 37 towards an upper corner of the package 1. At this upper corner the side edge 17, 18 and the upper edge 6 of the side wall 2 merge into each other, respectively.
- the frame formed by the lateral section(s) 37, 38 and the upper section 36 may provide an improved stability and may withstand a pressure or an outwardly directed force emanating from the articles 33, 34 being tightly packed and compressed in the inside of the package 1.
- various diapers 33, 34 tend to bulge out of the opening 35
- the way the upper and lateral section(s) 36, 37, 38 are mutually bonded or connected may provide an enhanced stability and resistivity against forces and pressures exerting mechanical strain and stress on the package 1.
- the side wall 2 has at least a first line of weakness 15, 16 separating the tear-off portion 10 and the at least one lateral section 37, 38 of the side wall 2.
- the line of weakness 15, 16 begins at an inner edge or at an inner location (e.g. a corner, if the frame takes a rectangular shape) of the frame being formed by the at least first lateral section(s) 37, 38 and the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 of the side wall 2.
- the line of weakness 15, 16 may further extend towards a lower edge 7 of the first side wall 2.
- the line of weakness 15, 16 does not extend all the way down to the lower edge 7 but ends at a distance from the lower side edge 7.
- the retaining frame formed after opening the package I entirely surrounds the opening 35, such that each lateral, upper or lower edge of the opening 35 has a certain distance to an associated side edge 6, 7, 17, 18 of the side wall 2.
- the opening defined by the lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 may be quadratic, rectangular, oval or round in shape. Alternatively, the opening may take any other form. Also, the opening 35 may vary in width. Typically, in an upper portion adjacent or close to the upper section 36 of the side wall 2, the opening 35 may be narrower than in a lower portion of the opening 35. Consequently, the lines of weakness 15, 16 specifying the shape of the opening 35 may diverge with respect to each other as the extend from an upper portion to a lower portion of the side wall 2.
- the shape of the lines of weakness 15, 16 may have the form of a straight line or may comprise bended or curved portions, featuring a concave or convex shape.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 have an upper portion 27 featuring a rather straight shape and being arranged substantially parallel to the elongation of the side edge 17, 18 of the side wall 2.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 further have a lower portion comprising a bended or curved shape. In these lower portions 28, the lines of weakness 15, 16 not only extend downward towards the lower edge 7 but also extend outwardly towards respective side edges 17, 18 of the side wall 2.
- the opening 35 is somewhat narrower compared to lower sections of the lines of weakness being closer to the lower edge 7 of the side wall 2.
- the articles 33, 34 lying adjacent the wider and lower section of the opening 35 may more easily bulge out through the opening 35.
- the article (e.g. the folded diaper 33, 34) lying closest to the opening 35 can be easily taken by the consumer in the area of the article (e.g. the folded diaper 33, 34), which has bulged out of the opening 35.
- the first article (e.g. the first folded diaper 33, 34) and one or more of the following articles (e.g. folded diapers) may be taken out together, provided that the lateral width of the lower portion of the opening 35 allows more than one article (e.g. folded diaper) of the row to bulge out of the opening.
- the width of the opening 35 at an upper portion may be smaller than a width at a lower portion of the opening 35.
- the package I comprises two rows of diapers 33, 34, and the lines of weakness 15, 16 each comprise upper and lower section 27, 28, the distance between lower sections of the lines of weakness 15, 16 may be smaller than the width of both rows of diapers 33, 34 taken together.
- the distance between lower, eventually bended sections 28 of the lines of weakness 15, 16 may be larger than the width of a major surface of a diaper 33, 34.
- the line of weakness or the various lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 may extend into the seam 31, 32 connecting or bonding the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 with the lateral sections 37, 38 of the sidewall.
- Such an arrangement is beneficial because the lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 then inherently provide predetermined breaking lines of the side wall 2 adjacent to the seam 31, 32, inherently providing a reinforced structure due to an at least partial doubling of material. Practically, in order to form the seam 31, 32 lateral and upper portions of the upper section 36 and the lateral sections 37, 38 substantially overlap.
- not only one but at least two lines of weakness 15, 16, namely the first and/or second line of weakness 15, 16 and the third line of weakness 20 may both extend into a respective seam 31, 32.
- the innermost portion of the seam 31, 32 lying adjacent an upper left or an upper right location (e.g. corner) of the opening 35 overlaps or coincides with a junction of the first line of weakness 15 and the third line of weakness 20; or with a crossing or junction of the second line of weakness 16 and the third line of weakness 20.
- the various lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 may comprise a structural weakening being adapted to disassemble or to disrupt upon exertion of a tearing-off force applied via the the tearing means 11.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16, 20 may comprise a perforation or a zigzag-structure.
- the seams 31, 32 connecting the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 with lateral sections 37, 38 of the side wall 2 extend at least into or over the first and second lines of weakness 15, 16.
- the seam 31, 32 may further extend to the side seam 19 of the first side wall 2.
- this side seam 19 is arranged substantially equidistant from the lateral side edges 17, 18 of the first side wall 2. If the seam 31, 32 begins at an upper side corner of the first side wall 2, it will extend onto or across at least one line of weakness 15, 16, 20, in the closed configuration of the package 1.
- the tearing means 11 becomes structurally reinforced, thus helping to ensure, that the tear-off portion 10 or the tearing means 11 itself does not disassemble and break during an opening of the package 1.
- the portion of the seam 40, 41 extending into the gusset 12 should provide a sufficient mechanical stability such that during a tear-offprocedure the tearing means 11 remains in its entirety as e.g. illustrated in Figure 2 .
- the portion of the seam 31, 32 extending into the tearing means 11 is typically co-aligned with fold lines, along which an inner layer 63, 64 and an outer layer 61, 62 of the external panel 14 forming the tearing means 11 are folded in order to form the triangle-shaped pocket or gusset 12.
- the seam and its consecutive and co-aligned portions 31, 41 as well as 32, 40 may be adapted to bond the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 with lateral section 17, 18 of the side wall 2 as well as to bond an inner layer 63, 64 and an outer layer 61, 62 of the two-plied external panel 14.
- the fold lines or seam portions 40, 41 typically encompass the first gusset 12 of the first side wall 2 towards its lower edge 7, as can be seen in figure 1 .
- the external panel 14 comprises a tongue-like appendix which can be gripped to tear open the package.
- the external panel may further comprise a smaller lateral width compared to the distance between opposing side edges 17, 18 of the first side wall 2. Consequently, the external panel 14 has a first and a second side edge 29, 30 confining the external panel in lateral direction. If a part of the external panel 14 has been cut away, at least a lateral portion of the upper section 36 of the internal panel 13 is not overlaid by the external panel 14 but directly contributes to the outer appearance of the side wall 2.
- the typically two-plied external panel 14 comprises a fold line connecting the two layers of the external panel 14. This fold line is adjacent to the upper edge 6 of the side wall 2, when the package 1 is closed.
- the inner and outer layers of the external panel 14 may be mutually unconnected.
- the external panel 14 and its inner and outer layers may be bonded or connected along the side edge 29, 30.
- the external panel 14 may be co-aligned with the internal panel 13 but may further comprise a line of weakness transforming into a slit upon opening of the package, wherein the slit coincides with side edge 29, 30 of the external panel 14 forming the tear-off portion 10.
- the external panel may also be directly provided with a slit, at least partially separating the external panel into various portions.
- the slit may have any suitable shape and geometry and separates the tearing means 11 from a residual portion of external panel 14 which does not contribute to the tear-off portion 10.
- the slit may extend in vertical direction and/or may be an elongation of the first and/or second line of weakness 15, 16. It may also extend at an angle with respect to the lines of weakness or with respect to the upper edge 6 of the package 1. For instance, the slit may extend along the seam 30, 31 at an angle of between 40° to 50°, 42° to 48° or at an angle of 45°.
- the slit or the line of weakness may extend from an upper edge 6 of the side wall 2 into the seam 31, 32.
- the residual portion of the external panel 14 being disposed outside the tongue-like appendix may be connected or bonded to the internal panel by means of an adhesive or by means of a bonding or welding procedure.
- the at least first side edge 29, 30 of the external panel 14 extends to the seam 31, 32. Additionally, the at least first side edge 29, 30 may be aligned parallel to the at least first line of weakness 15, 16. From another point of view, the seam 31, 32 traverses or intersects the alignment of side edges 29, 30 and the line of weakness 15, 16 directly at a juncture connecting side edges 29, 30 and the consecutive line of weakness 15, 16.
- the respective layers of the external panel 14 may no longer have to be seamed along the fold lines 40, 41.
- the outer and inner layers of the external panel 14 are bonded along their lower fold lines 40, 41 there may be no need to bond or to connect the two layers along the side edges 29, 30 of the external panel.
- at least one seam is introduced into the external panel 14, either along the fold lines 40, 41 or along the side edges 30, 29. Otherwise, the content of the package 1 could be accessible from outside even before the tearing means 11 is torn away.
- the tearing means 11 is typically comprised only by one of the opposing side walls 2, 3 of the package 1.
- the second side wall 3 differs from the design of the opposing first side wall 2 in that it does not comprise tearing means 11 in order to create an opening 35 in the side wall 3.
- the side wall 3 may comprise a gripping means 45 adapted to provide an easy and intuitive transporting and lifting of the package 1.
- the opposing side walls 2, 3 of the package 1 provide different and spatially separated means, either for transporting and gripping or for opening of the package 1.
- the second side wall 3 of the package 1 also comprises at least a second gusset 42 comprising an internal panel 43 and an external panel 44 together forming a second pocket.
- the second side wall 3 further comprises a gripping means 45 being formed in or through the external panel 44.
- the gripping means 45 may be configured as an aperture and/or may be configured as a slit 46, whereby the gripping means may take various shapes as long as it ensured, that one or more fingers of a person's hand fit through the gripping means 45 to allow lifting and transporting the package 1.
- the gripping means 45 may be formed as an aperture by removing a portion of the external panel 44.
- the gripping means 45 may be formed as a slit in or through the external panel 14, i.e. without removing any material when forming the gripping means 45.
- the gripping means 45 can be formed as a weakened area, such as an area being at least partially circumvented by a structural weakening 50, such as a perforation.
- a structural weakening 50 such as a perforation.
- the perforation or structural weakening may be transformed into a slit when a user, intending to lift the package 1, is gripping through the pocket or gusset 42 with his fingers, thereby at least partially breaking the perforation.
- the one or more fingers of a person of course only have to fit through the gripping means 45 after the perforation has been broken.
- the gripping means comprises a substantially horizontally aligned slit adjacent a lower edge 51 of an upper portion of the external panel 44, which forms a strap extending across the entire width of the side wall 3 adjacent to the upper edge 8 of the side wall 3.
- the gripping means 45 comprises a substantially oval- or rectangular-like shape, wherein an inner portion 46 is entirely circumvented by a structural weakening 50 being in turn encompassed by a structure of reinforcement 52.
- the strap 49 of the external panel 44 is that part of the second side wall 3 extending in height from an upper edge of the aperture or the slit 46 of the gripping means 45 to the upper edge 8 of the external panel 44.
- the strap 49 is adapted to be grasped manually from below in order to lift the package 1.
- the strap 49 may also be grasped from above to lift the package 1.
- the user may enter with his finger(s) into the pocket or gusset 42 from the upper edge 8 between the internal panel 43 and the external panel 44.
- the finger tips may reach through or they may penetrate the external panel 44 in the region of the gripping means 45 being designed as an aperture or being alternatively designed as a structural weakening to be broken upon a first gripping.
- the hand of the user is clasped around the strap 49 allowing for an easy and intuitive raising and transporting of the package 1.
- the strap 49 takes up the force manually applied and added directly above the gripping means 45.
- the strap 49 provides sufficient resistance to transfer the force to the rest of the side wall 3 and to the package 1 without tearing or disassembling the strap 49 or the respective side wall 3.
- unintentional opening of the package 1 can be effectively prevented.
- the strap 49 and its associated gripping means 45 are separately designed and arranged with respect to the tearing means 11, the strap 49 and its gripping function is nearly not affected by an opening of the package 1 at the opposing side wall 2. Therefore, even after the package 1 has been opened, the strap 49 can still be used to assist in lifting or transporting the package 1.
- the height of the strap 49 extending from the gripping means 45 to the upper edge 47 of the external panel 44 and hence to the upper edge 8 of the side wall 3 may range from 10 millimetres to 50 millimetres. These dimensions allow for convenient carrying and ensure that the strap 49 does not tear apart upon lifting of the package 1.
- the gripping means 45 may have an upper edge corresponding to the lower edge 51 of the strap 49.
- the gripping means 45 is formed through or in the external panel 44 of the second gusset 42. Hence, a portion of the pocket, which is covered by the gusset 42, extends from a lower edge of the gripping means 45 towards the lower edge 9 of the side wall 3. If the pocket takes the form of a downward pointing triangle, a portion of the pocket extending from a lower edge of the gripping means 45 downwards will also take the form of a, however smaller, triangle. This smaller triangle can be further used to slit at least a part of a user's finger into, providing a universal way of gripping and lifting the package 1.
- the way, the gusset 42 is configured in the second side wall 3, is well-known in the art.
- the external panel 44 comprises two layers, an inner layer and an outer layer.
- the gusset 42 has a triangle-shaped geometry and it is confined by two fold lines 70, 71 and by an upper edge 47 of the external panel 44 as illustrated by way of example in Figure 3 .
- the inner and the outer layers of the external panel 44 may be reinforced adjacent lateral and upper as well as lower edges of the gripping means 45.
- the structure of reinforcement 52 as e.g. depicted in Figure 9 may be introduced by bonding, joining or connecting the inner and outer layer of the external panel 44 along a predetermined structure.
- the gripping means 45 as illustrated in Figure 9 comprises an aperture 46 being executed as a cut away of material over a region of approximately rectangular shape comprising oval or curved edges.
- the aperture 46 is circumvented or surrounded by a closed structure of reinforcement 52.
- the reinforcement structure 52 is not confined to such embodiments, wherein the gripping means 45 is designed as an aperture 46.
- Such reinforced gripping means can also be facilitated in any other way or embodiment as described above.
- the inner and outer layer of the external panel 44 may be bonded to each other adjacent the entire upper and/or lower edge of the gripping means 45.
- the inner and outer layer may be bonded to each other at least adjacent the upper or lower edge of the gripping means 45.
- the bonding of the inner and outer layers can be achieved, e.g. by adhesive bonding, pressure bonding as well as by means of thermal bonding or ultrasonic bonding, especially, if the flexible package is made of thermoplastic material. Other suitable bonding means known in the art are also within the scope of this invention.
- the bonding of the inner and outer layers can be done intermittently adjacent the edges of the gripping means 45 or can be executed as a continuous bonding line extending adjacent the upper and/or lower edge of the gripping means 45.
- gripping means There are several alternative ways of providing the package with gripping means. They do not necessarily have to be disposed at the side wall 3 opposite to the side wall 2 comprising the tearing means 11. Alternatively, they may comprise a lug or a strap-handle being attached to the front or back wall of the package. Also, the gripping means may be attached o the top wall 4. These alternative gripping means may further be detachably fixed to the package I and may be released for gripping purpose by a user interaction.
- FIGs 4 through 6 schematically illustrate a possible way of manufacturing the flexible package 1.
- the manufacture of the package 1 may start from an endless sheet travelling in machine direction 58.
- the sheet as illustrated in Figure 4 and shown in cross section along A-A in Figure 5 is folded multiple times with respect to fold lines 54 and 55 in such a way, that the folded sheet, in machine direction 58, comprises a twofold portion 57 and a fourfold portion 56.
- the fold lines 54 and 55 extend in machine direction 58 along machine direction 58.
- the sheet In cross machine direction 59, the sheet has a lateral or marginal edge 55 and 66.
- the upper marginal edge 55 of the fourfold portion 56 is coextensive and therefore identical to the fold line 55.
- the fold line 55 therefore forms an upper marginal or lateral edge of the folded sheet, whereas the other fold line 54 separates the twofold portion 57 and the fourfold portion 56.
- the folded sheet further has a lower edge 66, which is at the twofold portion 57.
- the lower edge 66 of the twofold portion 57 later on forms at least a part of the bottom wall of the package 1, whereas the opposing edge 55 of the fourfold portion 56 forms a portion of the top wall 4 of the package 1.
- the fourfold portion 56 of the M-shaped folded sheet comprises two outer layers 61, 62 forming at the same time the two layers 61, 62 of the adjacent twofold portion 57. Sandwiched between the two outer layers 61, 62, the fourfold portion 56 further comprises two inner layers 63, 64 disposed adjacently in an overlapping manner.
- the two inner layers 63, 64 as well as the two outer layers 61, 62 are portions of the folded endless sheet.
- the inner layers 63 and 64 mutually merge at the fold line 54 and each inner layer 63, 64 merges into the adjacent outer layer 61, 62 at the fold line 55.
- At least one line of weakness 15, 16 is introduced in each layer 61, 62, 63, 64 of the fourfold portion 56 such that the lines of weakness are preferably introduced in the same location of the overlaying layers 61, 62, 63, 64.
- the line of weakness forms the tearing means 11 for providing an opening 35 in the at least first side wall 2.
- the line of weakness 15, 16 may be implemented as a perforation, a zigzag-structure or as a partial or complete cut or slit in or through the material of the fourfold portion 56.
- at least one outer layer 61,62 of the fourfold portion 56 is partially bonded or connected with an adjacent inner layer 63, 64 of the fourfold portion for generating a frame adapted to retain the articles 33 34 inside a filled package 1.
- the at least one outer layer 61, 62 and the adjacent inner layer 63, 64 of the fourfold portion 56 in a singular point or region typically in direct vicinity of the line of weakness 15, 16.
- Bonding of adjacent outer and inner layers 61, 62, 63, 64 as well as introducing at least one line of weakness 15, 16 can either be executed simultaneously or sequentially. It is further possible to at least partially bond adjacent inner and outer layers 61, 62, 63, 64 before the at least one line of weakness 15, 16 is introduced into at least the fourfold portion 56. Alternatively, it is also possible to bond the adjacent layers 61, 62, 63, 64 after the line of weakness 15, 16 has been introduced in the above described way.
- all layers 61, 62, 63, 64 of the endless-sheet are sealed and cut along a side seam 19, 39, 53 extending substantially in cross machine direction 59.
- the side seam bonds and connects all layers of the respective twofold and fourfold portion 57, 56 and further splits first and second packages 60, 65 being consecutively arranged in the endless sheet.
- the sealing and cutting may be performed simultaneously by means of a combined seaming and cutting stage.
- all layers 61, 62, 63, 64 of the endless sheet become inherently provided with a side seam 19, 39 connecting in one step the two layers 61, 62 of the twofold portion 57 as well as all four layers 61, 62, 63, 64 of the fourfold portion 56.
- Forming and generating of the side seam 19, 39 as well as cutting or disassembling of adjacent and consecutive packages 60, 65 may be executed in a single step by means of the a convenient seaming and cutting apparatus.
- the side seams 19, 39 are also bonding the two inner layers 63, 64 in cross-machine direction. With respect to Figures 1 and 3 , these portions of the inner layers 63, 64 in close vicinity to the side seam 19, 39 later on form an inner layer of the external panel 14, 44, whereas respective portions of the outer layers 61, 62 form the outer layer of the external panel 14, 44.
- the internal panel 13 and its upper section 36 of the first side wall 2 is entirely formed by the inner layers 63, 64.
- the outer layers 61, 62 with adjacent inner layers 63, 64 along a seam 31, 32 extending in the fourfold portion 56 of the endless sheet.
- the seam 31, 32 should be confined to the fourfold portion 56.
- this seam 31, 32 only bonds the outer layer 61 with its adjacent inner layer 63 and the outer layer 62 with its adjacent inner layer 64. Bonding of adjacent outer and inner layers 61, 62, 63, 64 is executed in such a way, that the inner layers 63, 64 remain separated from each other all the way along the seam 31, 32.
- the side wall 2 Since the two seams 31, 32 are introduced in the fourfold portion 56 of the endless sheet in an overlapping manner, after introducing the side seam 19, 39 and cutting consecutive packages 60, 66 along the line 53, the side wall 2, as illustrated in Figure 7 , has a substantially symmetric configuration with respect to the side seam 19.
- each seam 31, 32 intersects or.extends into lines of weakness 15, 16, thereby specifying the width of the upper edge of the opening 35 to be generated by the tearing means 11, respectively.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 may extend up to the upper edge 6 of the side wall 2.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 in particular their upper straight section 27 at least extend into the seam 31, 32.
- the external panel 14 as it extends above the crossing points of the seam 31, 32 and the lines of weakness 15, 16 may comprise lateral edges 29, 30 confining the lateral width of the tongue-like appendix of the external panel 14.
- the external panel may also be cut from an upper edge 6 of the side wall 2 adjacent the seam 31, 32 down to the crossing point of the seam 31, 32 and the lines of weakness 15, 16 in order to remove a triangle-shaped section 48 of the external panel 14.
- the external panel 14 may comprise a slit or an additional line of weakness providing a separation of the flap-like appendix from the external panel 14.
- the side seams 19, 39 extending substantially in cross machine direction 59 as well as the seams 31, 32 may be introduced into the various layers 61, 62, 63, 64 of the endless sheet separately or simultaneously.
- a structure of reinforcement 52 extending into the side seam 39 may also be introduced into pairs of overlapping outer and inner layers 61, 63 as well as 62, 64.
- a structural weakening 50 which may typically designed as a perforation or a slit may be introduced adjacent the structure of reinforcement 52.
- the structure of reinforcement 52 may be introduced simultaneous with the structure of weakening 50. However, it may also be advantageous to introduce the structure of reinforcement 52 before the structural weakening 50 is applied to the endless sheet.
- the structure of reinforcement 52 may take any shape. It can be oval, circular, or may have a slit like geometry. Further, the structure of reinforcement 52 should be disposed or arranged at a distance from the edge 55 of the fourfold portion 56. The distance between the structural weakening 50 and the lateral edge 55 defines the height of strap 49 in the final package. Hence, the edge 55 corresponds to the upper edge 6, 8 of the side walls 2, 3.
- the outer layer 62 can be joined or bonded with its adjacent inner layer 64 by any kind of suitable joining or bonding means, such like ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding or pressure bonding. Accordingly, the outer layer 61 is joined or bonded with the adjacent inner layer 63. However, the two inner layers 63, 64 are not joined or bonded to each other when introducing a structure of reinforcement. For instance, when applying ultrasonic- , thermal- or pressure bonding, it has to be ascertained, that the two inner layers 63, 64 remain separated from each other.
- a separating means or a separating agent may be inserted or disposed between the inner layers before the outer layer 61 is bonded or joined with the adjacent inner layer 63 and when the outer layer 62 is bonded or joined with the inner layer 64 along the structure of reinforcement 52.
- heat resistant separating means such as a heat resistant sheet which may optionally be the coated with a non-stick medium or with a non-stick coating.
- the structure of reinforcement 52 is of closed shape and the structural weakening 50 is adjacently arranged inside the structure of reinforcement 52.
- the gripping means 12 and the aperture 37 or the slit are surrounded by the structure of reinforcement 52.
- the structure of reinforcement 52 does not have to completely encompass the structural weakening 50.
- the side seams 19, 39 extending in cross machine direction 59 comprise a certain width in machine direction 58.
- a combined width of both side seams 19, 39 is approximately between 3 and 10 millimetres allowing, that positioning of the side seams 19, 39 as well as positioning of the seam and cut line 53 does no longer need to be absolute precise but may vary within certain limits. Even though when the side seam is unequally divided into side seams 19, 53 of consecutive packages 60, 65 along a seam and cut line 53, a sufficient seaming and sealing of the respective side walls 2, 3 of the packages 60, 65 can still be achieved.
- the side seams 19, 39 disposed in the fourfold portion 56 are wider in machine direction than the seam 53 being introduced in the twofold portion 57 of the endless sheet.
- the combined width of the seams 19, 39 is twice as large as the width of the seam 53.
- the width of each seam 19, 39 may vary between 3 to 10 mm.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 may be introduced at least into the fourfold portion 56.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16, may also extend into the twofold portion 57, respectively.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 are typically introduced simultaneously in all layers 61, 62, 63, 64 of the fourfold portion 56 and the twofold portion 57. Consequently, the lines of weakness 15, 16 substantially take the same overlapping shape in all these layers 61, 62, 63, 64.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 with their lower or bended portion 28 traverse the fold line 54 separating the twofold portion 57 from the fourfold portion 56 of the endless sheet.
- Figure 6 schematically illustrates the two packages 60, 66 of figure 4 when not bonded or joined along the side seams 19, 39 and the seams 31, 32 but when unfolded with respect to the fold lines 54 and 55.
- Figure 6 only serves illustrative purposes; the configuration shown in Figure 6 does not occur during manufacture of the package according to the method of the present invention.
- the two outer sections 61 and 62 correspond to the two outer layers of Figure 5
- the inner sections 63 and 64 correspond to the two inner layers.
- Figure 6 is only exemplary for illustration purpose. In a real life situation, the seams 31 and 32 are joined to each other and corresponding reinforcement structures 52 of the sections 61 and 63 as well as 62 and 64 are mutually joined or bonded.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 are symmetrically present in the two outer sections 61, 62 as well as in the two inner sections 63, 64.
- the first line of weakness 15 extends into the seam 31 of the section 64 and the second line of weakness 16 extends into the seam 32 of the section 63.
- a third line of weakness 20 extends between the first and the second lines of weakness 15, 16.
- the three lines of weakness may also be interpreted as a single continuous line of weakness having a first, second and third section, 15, 16, 20.
- the third line of weakness 20 Upon filling of the package 60, 65, 1 the third line of weakness 20 extends within the internal panel 13 being almost entirely covered and overlaid by the external panel 14.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 traverse the fold line 54.
- the lines of weakness 15, 16 comprise an upper straight section 27 as well as a lower bended section 28.
- the lower residual part of the bended or curved section 28 of a line of weakness 15, 16 extends in the twofold portion 57 of the endless sheet. That part of the bended portion 28 of the lines of weakness 15, 16 extending in the fourfold portion 56 transforms into a peak portion 24 and a respective notch 23 in the internal panel 13 of the side wall 2.
- the structure of reinforcement 52 may be of arbitrary shape. It can be oval, circular, or may have a straight shape. Further, the structure of reinforcement 52 should be disposed or arranged at a distance from the lateral edge 55 of the fourfold portion 56. The distance between the structural weakening 50 and the lateral edge 55 defines the height of the strap 49 of the second side wall3 of the package 1.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
- Bag Frames (AREA)
- Wrappers (AREA)
- Cartons (AREA)
- Push-Button Switches (AREA)
- Control And Other Processes For Unpacking Of Materials (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The object of the application relates to a package suitable as a flexible wrapping especially for diapers that are placed in the package in a consolidated form in one or more series. An opening can be made in one side wall of the package manually for individual removal of the package contents.
- A flexible package with an opening feature according to the prior art is disclosed e.g. in
US 2006/0021894 Al . The opening feature is facilitated in a side wall and, upon opening, provides access to the articles contained in the package. The opening can be initiated by using an aperture. The package will tear open along lines of weakness. The lines of weakness extend to an upper edge of the package, while the aperture is arranged somewhat below this edge. Upon opening, the complete aperture is torn downwardly. - One of the disadvantages associated with this package is that it can accidentally tear if it is lifted at the external panel of a gusset. Moreover, the contents contained in the package will easily fall out of the package upon opening, as the opening provided is relatively large.
- It is an objective of the present invention, to provide an opening feature for a flexible package, which does not open inadvertently upon a lifting of the package.
- Further, it is an objective of the present invention, to provide a package with an opening feature, wherein the articles or parts of the articles contained in the package do not fall out of the package after opening but are contained in the package. For example, if the articles are a multiplicity of diapers, the diapers should not fall out of the package after opening.
- The present invention provides a flexible package being capable and being adapted to contain a multiplicity of articles, as defined in
claim 1. The package comprises a plurality of walls, including first and second opposing side walls. Each of the side walls has side seams and each of the side walls has an upper and a lower edge. - At least a first gusset is formed in at least the first side wall, whereby the first gusset comprises an internal panel and an external panel, together forming a pocket.
- The at least first side wall further comprises a tearing means being at least partially formed in or through the external panel.
- The tearing means is adapted to create an opening in the first side wall. The opening is confined by at least an upper section of the internal panel and by at least a lateral section of the side wall.
- At least one lateral edge of the upper section of the internal panel is at least partially bonded to an upper edge of the lateral section of the side wall. Further, the lateral section and the upper section form a frame, which is adapted to retain the articles inside the package after creation of the opening.
- The present invention further provides, in accordance with
claim 13, a method of manufacturing a flexible package comprising a plurality of walls, including first and second opposing side walls, wherein at least a first gusset is formed in the first side wall and wherein the first gusset comprises an internal panel being covered by an external panel, together forming a pocket. Further, the first side wall comprises a tearing means being at least partially formed in or through the external panel. The method of manufacturing comprises the steps of: - Providing an endless sheet travelling in a machine direction and comprising in cross machine direction a twofold portion and a fourfold portion. The twofold portion comprises two layers and the fourfold portion comprises four layers. The outer layers of the fourfold portion extend into the two layers of the twofold portion. Further, at least one line of weakness is introduced in each layer of the fourfold portion. The line of weakness forms a tearing means being adapted to provide an opening in the side wall. The opening is confined by at least an upper section of the internal panel and by at least a lateral section of the side wall. The upper and lateral sections form a frame, which is adapted to retain the articles inside the package after creation of the opening.
- Further, at least one outer layer of the fourfold portion is at least partially bonded with an adjacent inner layer of the fourfold portion for generating the frame.
- Finally, all layers of the twofold and fourfold portion are seamed and cut along a side seam extending in cross machine direction.
- While the specification concludes with claims pointing out and distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed the same will be better understood by the following drawings taken in conjunction with the accompanying specification, wherein like components are given the same reference number.
- Figure 1
- in a perspective view, a foil package containing a series of diapers, with a first side wall comprising opening means having a line of weakness along a tearing-off direction and comprising a tongue- or flap-like appendix for creating an opening in the wall;
- Figure 2
- in a perspective view, the package of
figure 1 , with the side wall opened; - Figure 3
- in a perspective view, the package of
figure 1 as seen from a second side wall comprising gripping means and a slit or aperture directly underneath a strap; - Figure 4
- in a front view, two packages during manufacture from an endless sheet;
- Figure 5
- a schematic illustration of various layers of the endless sheet according to
figure 4 as seen along cross section A-A; - Figure 6
- a schematic illustration of the two packages according to
figure 4 in an unfolded configuration; - Figure 7
- in a front view, a schematic and simplified illustration of the first side wall comprising opening means;
- Figure 8
- in a front view, a schematic and simplified illustration of the second side wall comprising gripping means; and
- Figure 9
- in a front view, another embodiment of the second side wall of the package comprising a reinforced aperture as gripping means.
- "Diaper" as used herein refers to absorbent articles generally worn by infants and incontinent persons about the lower torso. The diaper may be fastened onto the wearer using tapes or, alternatively, the diaper may have side seams, which are fastened together - both permanently or refastenably- such that the diaper is applied onto the wear like a conventional underwear (i.e. the user will put his legs through the respective leg openings and the diaper is then pulled up to its final position).
- "Comprise," "comprising," and "comprises" is an open ended term that specifies the presence of what follows, e.g. a component but does not preclude the presence of other features, elements, steps or components known in the art, or disclosed herein. However, the presence of additional other features, elements, steps or components is not required at the terms "comprise" "comprising," and "comprises" thus also encompasses the terms "consisting of" and "essentially consisting of".
- The
flexible package 1 of the present invention may be rectangular, and may comprise thermoplastic material. Further, theflexible package 1 comprises a plurality of walls, typically two opposing, first andsecond side walls top wall 4 an a bottom wall. - Each
side wall upper edge top wall 4 and further has alower edge package 1. Eachside wall - The material of the filled
package 1 is folded over from the front and back wall to theside walls package 1. Also, the material at least from thetop wall 4 is folded over to theside walls side walls side wall respective side seam closed package 1. The side seams 19, 39 are essentially extending from theupper edges side walls lower edges side walls - Furthermore, at least one
gusset 12 is formed in thefirst side wall 2 adjacent theupper edge 6 of theside wall 2. Thegusset 12 comprises aninternal panel 13, which is overlaid by anexternal panel 14. Theinternal panel 13 and theexternal panel 14 may have the same dimensions and the same shape and may therefore be coextensive. With respect to the embodiment ofFigure 1 , theexternal panel 14 may be smaller in width than theinternal panel 13 because parts of the external panel have been removed. In lateral extension along theupper edge 6 of theside wall 2, theinternal panel 13 is at least partially covered by theexternal panel 14, e.g. in a region including theside seam 19. - The
gusset 12 of thefirst side wall 2 may be at least partially shaped in the form of a triangle pointing down towards thelower edge 7 of theside wall 2. Thegusset 12 formed by theinternal panel 13 being at least partially overlapped by theexternal panel 14. Theexternal panel 14 is two-ply and therefore comprises two layers of material being folded onto each other, the fold line extending adjacent theupper edge 6 of the side wall and defines the upper edge of theexternal panel 14. - The
external panel 14 has lateral side edges 29, 30 which may extend substantially parallel to the side edges 17, 18 of theside wall 2. The upper edge of theexternal panel 14 may be smaller in width than theside wall 2. In such embodiments, theinternal panel 13 is only partially overlaid by theexternal panel 14, for example in a region of the side wall comprising theside seam 19. - In
Figure 1 the lower end portions of theexternal panel 14 and of thegusset 12 are indicated by the dashedfold lines side seam 19 and extending into theside seam 19 at an angle of from 40° to 50°; or from 42° to 48° or 45°,upper edge 6 of theside wall 2. - The upper portion of the
external panel 14 as illustrated infigure 1 provides a kind of tongue- or flap-like appendix serving as a tearing means 11. Hence, a user intending to open thepackage 1 may grasp theexternal panel 14 from above and/or from the side edges 29, 30 and may exert a tearing force directed towards thelower edge 7 of the side wall, thereby disrupting theinternal panel 13 and possibly also theexternal panel 14 and forming anopening 35 for removing the articles being disposed inside thepackage 1. - The opening may form along at least one line of
weakness side wall 2. There may be provided a first 15 and a second line ofweakness 16, each of which extending adjacent theopening 35 to be created in thepackage 1 and serving as a weakened structure in the material of the package. The extension and shape of the lines ofweakness opening 35, because the lines ofweakness opening 35. Additionally, there may be provided a third line ofweakness 20 connecting the first and second line ofweakness internal panel 13 being.covered or overlaid by theexternal panel 14. - The
flexible package 1 may comprise a multiplicity ofarticles diapers - A diaper typically has a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis. One end portion of the diaper is configured as a front waist region of the diaper. The opposite end portion is configured as a back waist region of the diaper. An intermediate portion of the diaper is configured as a crotch region, which extends longitudinally between the front and back waist regions. The crotch region is that portion of the diaper which, when the diaper is worn, is generally positioned between the wearer's legs. Further, the transverse axis is typically in the crotch region of the diaper.
- In a two-folded diaper, the diaper is folded in the crotch region along its transverse axis or near its transverse axis. In the folded diaper, the front waist region is lying adjacent the back waist region and the front and back waist region are substantially coextensive.
- Alternatively, the diaper may be tri-folded, whereby one of the front or back waist regions is folded over onto the crotch region where after the remaining waist region is folded over onto the first folded waist region.
- The folded diaper comprises two major surfaces. E.g. in a two-folded diaper, the first major surface comprises the front waist region of the diaper and a portion of the crotch region, while the second major surface comprises the back waist region of the diaper and the remaining portion of the crotch portion. However, also a tri-folded diaper has two major surfaces. When placed into the flexible package, the major surfaces should face towards the
side walls 2 of thepackage 1. - If the
package 1 comprises more than one row of diapers, the diapers should be arranged such that in each row,major surfaces side walls 2 of the package. - Also, the folded diapers arranged in the
package 1 have an upper part lying towards the top wall of the package and a lower part lying towards the bottom wall. - In the embodiment illustrated in
Figures 1 to 3 only oneside wall 2 comprises opening and tearing means whereas the other oppositely locatedside wall 3 comprises gripping means 45 for lifting and transporting thepackage 1. However, the gripping means is only optional. - The
opening 35 may be created by tearing down the tearing means 11 or the tongue- or flap-likeexternal panel 14. While theexternal panel 14 and the associated tearing means 11 are torn off or torn down, the various lines ofweakness weakness opening 35 as depicted inFigure 2 . In the closed configuration the third line ofweakness 20 separates thelower edge 21 of anupper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 from theupper edge 22 of theinternal panel 13. The third line ofweakness 20 is part of the tearing means 11, which is torn down for creating theopening 35. In the following, the piece, which is torn down, will be referred to as tear-off portion 10. In a central section theedge 21 may comprise anotch 23 corresponding with apeak portion 24 of theedge 22 of the tearing means 11. - Further, the tear-
off portion 10 also comprises alateral side edge 26 which coincides with aside edge 25 of alateral section 37 of theside wall 2. The same applies to the other lateral edge of the tear-off portion or the tearing means 11 having a lateral edge coinciding with an inner edge of alateral section 38 of theside wall 2. - The
opening 35 as illustrated infigure 2 is confined by anupper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 and by at least one, typically by twolateral sections side wall 2. The twolateral sections diapers package 1 after creation of theopening 35. - In the illustrated embodiments, the tear-off motion maybe directed downwards to the
lower edge 7 of theside wall 2. In alternative embodiments, theopening 35 may also extend to other walls of thepackage 1. Then, at least a part of the tear-off portion 10 extends to one or more other walls, for instance to the front, back, top or bottom wall of thepackage 1. In these alternative embodiments, theopening 35 may be asymmetric in shape and may also be asymmetrically arranged with respect to the overall geometry and symmetry of theside wall 2. - In order to form a frame providing a retaining function for the
articles lateral section side wall 2. In this way, a retaining frame comprising an upper section and at least one lateral section can be provided. In particular, after opening thepackage 1, the frame helps to ensure, that thearticles package 1 remain within thepackage 1 and do not fall out. The upper part of the articles, e.g. thediapers package 1 by the frame. In another embodiment the frame may comprise twolateral sections upper section 36. Theupper section 36 then connects the twolateral sections opening 35 is governed by the lateral size and lateral extension of thelateral section lateral sections weakness articles flexible package 1. Also, if for example thepackage 1 comprises a multiplicity of foldeddiapers opening 35 will also depend on the number of diaper rows comprised in thepackage 1. If thepackage 1 comprises only one row ofdiapers weakness package 1 comprising two rows of diapers arranged next to each other, as illustrated infigure 2 . After opening thepackage 1, thefirst diaper - The
package 1 of the present invention may also contain three or four rows of articles, such as thediapers weakness lower edge 7 of thepackage 1. Anopening 35 being smaller in width or height may be torn open first to have access to the upper two rows of diapers. After the upper two rows of diapers have been used up, the opening can be enlarged by exerting.a further tear-off force to the tear-off portion in such a way, that also lower portions of the lines of weakness are disrupted and become disassembled along their entire length. - In such a final opening position, the two lower rows of diapers are securely held and maintained within the
package 1 upon using the upper two rows of diapers. Alternatively, apackage 1 containing four rows of diapers may comprise two separate lines of weakness, wherein the upper line of weakness may be associated with the tearing means 11. A lower and separate line of weakness may be implemented into theside wall 2 independently from the tearing means 11 and also independent and separate from the upper line of weakness. If thepackage 1 comprises only one row of diapers, the spacing between laterally spaced lines ofweaknesses opening 35 to the left and to the right, may be smaller than the width of the article's major surface, which faces towards theopening 35. In this embodiment, after opening thepackage 1 along the lines ofweakness opening 35 and the side portions of the diaper's major surface may be retained in thepackage 1 by thelateral sections side wall 2, each of which extending from a line ofweakness 16 to aside edge 18 and from a line ofweakness 15 to theside edge 17 of theside wall 2, respectively. - If the
package 1 comprises two rows ofdiapers weakness diapers weakness diaper package 1 along the lines ofweakness side edge side wall 2 and facing towards the opening 35 may be retained in thepackage 1 by thelateral section side wall 2. - However, the other side portion of the diapers major surface lying adjacent a
diaper diapers - In the illustrated embodiments at least one lateral edge of the
upper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 is abutting against an upper edge of the at least onelateral section first side wall 2. Hence, the at least one lateral edge of theupper edge section 36 and the upper edge of the at least onelateral section upper section 36 and the at least onelateral section upper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 and at least alateral section side wall 2 are bonded along aseam opening 35 towards anedge first side wall 2. Alternatively, the seam may extend towards the corner formed between theupper edge 6 and one of the side edges 17, 18. - The juncture between the
upper section 36 and the at least onelateral section seam seam seam seam lateral sections upper section 36 of theside wall 2 typically extends in direct vicinity of theopening 35 to be created in the side wall, e.g. the seam or juncture extends only along up to 25% , or up to 40% of the length of the abutting edges (starting from the opening). Alternatively, the seam or juncture may extend along the whole length of the abutting edges. - In typical embodiments, the
seam upper edge 6 of theside wall 2. In these embodiments, theupper section 36 and the at least one lateral section(s) 37, 38 form a mitered joint. Theseam opening 35 defined by a crossing point of thelower edge 21 of theupper section 36 and theside edge 25 of alateral section 37 towards an upper corner of thepackage 1. At this upper corner theside edge upper edge 6 of theside wall 2 merge into each other, respectively. - By means of connecting or bonding
lateral sections upper section 36 of theside wall 2 as a mitered joint, the frame formed by the lateral section(s) 37, 38 and theupper section 36 may provide an improved stability and may withstand a pressure or an outwardly directed force emanating from thearticles package 1. In particular, when after creation of theopening 35various diapers opening 35, the way the upper and lateral section(s) 36, 37, 38 are mutually bonded or connected may provide an enhanced stability and resistivity against forces and pressures exerting mechanical strain and stress on thepackage 1. - The
side wall 2 has at least a first line ofweakness off portion 10 and the at least onelateral section side wall 2. Typically, the line ofweakness upper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 of theside wall 2. The line ofweakness lower edge 7 of thefirst side wall 2. Typically, the line ofweakness lower edge 7 but ends at a distance from thelower side edge 7. In such an embodiment, the retaining frame formed after opening the package I entirely surrounds theopening 35, such that each lateral, upper or lower edge of theopening 35 has a certain distance to an associatedside edge side wall 2. - The opening defined by the lines of
weakness opening 35 may vary in width. Typically, in an upper portion adjacent or close to theupper section 36 of theside wall 2, theopening 35 may be narrower than in a lower portion of theopening 35. Consequently, the lines ofweakness opening 35 may diverge with respect to each other as the extend from an upper portion to a lower portion of theside wall 2. The shape of the lines ofweakness - In the illustrated embodiment of
Figure 1 , the lines ofweakness upper portion 27 featuring a rather straight shape and being arranged substantially parallel to the elongation of theside edge side wall 2. The lines ofweakness lower portions 28, the lines ofweakness lower edge 7 but also extend outwardly towards respective side edges 17, 18 of theside wall 2. - Hence, along upper sections of the lines of
weakness opening 35 is somewhat narrower compared to lower sections of the lines of weakness being closer to thelower edge 7 of theside wall 2. - Those parts of the
articles opening 35 may more easily bulge out through theopening 35. Thus, it is easier for a consumer to grip the article (e.g. a foldeddiaper 33, 34) upon opening thepackage 1. The article (e.g. the foldeddiaper 33, 34) lying closest to theopening 35 can be easily taken by the consumer in the area of the article (e.g. the foldeddiaper 33, 34), which has bulged out of theopening 35. Alternatively, the first article (e.g. the first foldeddiaper 33, 34) and one or more of the following articles (e.g. folded diapers) may be taken out together, provided that the lateral width of the lower portion of theopening 35 allows more than one article (e.g. folded diaper) of the row to bulge out of the opening. - Also in embodiments wherein the
package 1 comprises only one row of articles such asdiapers opening 35 at an upper portion may be smaller than a width at a lower portion of theopening 35. If the package I comprises two rows ofdiapers weakness lower section weakness diapers bended sections 28 of the lines ofweakness diaper - Further, the line of weakness or the various lines of
weakness seam upper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 with thelateral sections weakness side wall 2 adjacent to theseam seam upper section 36 and thelateral sections - Further, not only one but at least two lines of
weakness weakness weakness 20 may both extend into arespective seam seam opening 35 overlaps or coincides with a junction of the first line ofweakness 15 and the third line ofweakness 20; or with a crossing or junction of the second line ofweakness 16 and the third line ofweakness 20. The various lines ofweakness weakness - The
seams upper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 withlateral sections side wall 2 extend at least into or over the first and second lines ofweakness seam side seam 19 of thefirst side wall 2. In typical embodiments, thisside seam 19 is arranged substantially equidistant from the lateral side edges 17, 18 of thefirst side wall 2. If theseam first side wall 2, it will extend onto or across at least one line ofweakness package 1. In such embodiments where theseam side wall 2 to theside seam 19, which in turn typically extends across theentire side wall 2 from thelower edge 7 to theupper edge 6, the tearing means 11 becomes structurally reinforced, thus helping to ensure, that the tear-off portion 10 or the tearing means 11 itself does not disassemble and break during an opening of thepackage 1. Hence, even in circumstances, where the tongue-like appendix of the tearing means 11 is gripped near alateral side edge seam gusset 12 should provide a sufficient mechanical stability such that during a tear-offprocedure the tearing means 11 remains in its entirety as e.g. illustrated inFigure 2 . - As further depicted by the dashed
lines Figure 2 , the portion of theseam inner layer outer layer external panel 14 forming the tearing means 11 are folded in order to form the triangle-shaped pocket orgusset 12. Hence, the seam and its consecutive andco-aligned portions upper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 withlateral section side wall 2 as well as to bond aninner layer outer layer external panel 14. - The fold lines or
seam portions first gusset 12 of thefirst side wall 2 towards itslower edge 7, as can be seen infigure 1 . - The
external panel 14 comprises a tongue-like appendix which can be gripped to tear open the package. The external panel may further comprise a smaller lateral width compared to the distance between opposing side edges 17, 18 of thefirst side wall 2. Consequently, theexternal panel 14 has a first and asecond side edge external panel 14 has been cut away, at least a lateral portion of theupper section 36 of theinternal panel 13 is not overlaid by theexternal panel 14 but directly contributes to the outer appearance of theside wall 2. The typically two-pliedexternal panel 14 comprises a fold line connecting the two layers of theexternal panel 14. This fold line is adjacent to theupper edge 6 of theside wall 2, when thepackage 1 is closed. Along the at least oneside edge external panel 14 may be mutually unconnected. Alternatively, theexternal panel 14 and its inner and outer layers may be bonded or connected along theside edge - In an alternative embodiment, the
external panel 14 may be co-aligned with theinternal panel 13 but may further comprise a line of weakness transforming into a slit upon opening of the package, wherein the slit coincides withside edge external panel 14 forming the tear-off portion 10. Instead of such an additional line of weakness, the external panel may also be directly provided with a slit, at least partially separating the external panel into various portions. - The slit may have any suitable shape and geometry and separates the tearing means 11 from a residual portion of
external panel 14 which does not contribute to the tear-off portion 10. The slit may extend in vertical direction and/or may be an elongation of the first and/or second line ofweakness upper edge 6 of thepackage 1. For instance, the slit may extend along theseam upper edge 6 of theside wall 2 into theseam external panel 14 being disposed outside the tongue-like appendix may be connected or bonded to the internal panel by means of an adhesive or by means of a bonding or welding procedure. - In typical embodiments, as exemplary illustrated in
Figures 1 and2 , the at leastfirst side edge external panel 14 extends to theseam first side edge weakness seam weakness weakness - In embodiments, where the side edges 29, 30 of the
external panel 14 are separately seamed in order to bond the two layers forming the two-ptiedexternal panel 14, the respective layers of theexternal panel 14 may no longer have to be seamed along the fold lines 40, 41. Vice versa, if the outer and inner layers of theexternal panel 14 are bonded along theirlower fold lines external panel 14, either along the fold lines 40, 41 or along the side edges 30, 29. Otherwise, the content of thepackage 1 could be accessible from outside even before the tearing means 11 is torn away. - The tearing means 11 is typically comprised only by one of the opposing
side walls package 1. As for example illustrated inFigure 3 , thesecond side wall 3 differs from the design of the opposingfirst side wall 2 in that it does not comprise tearing means 11 in order to create anopening 35 in theside wall 3. In contrast, theside wall 3 may comprise a grippingmeans 45 adapted to provide an easy and intuitive transporting and lifting of thepackage 1. The opposingside walls package 1 provide different and spatially separated means, either for transporting and gripping or for opening of thepackage 1. By arranging grippingmeans 45 and tearing means 11 at different andopposing side walls package 1, an inadvertent opening of thepackage 1 upon lifting, e.g. from a shelf can be effectively prevented. In detail, the gripping means 45 provided at theside wall 3 are not adapted to create anopening 35 in thepackage 1 whereas the tearing means 11 provided at the opposingside wall 2 are rather unsuitable to grip the package, e.g. for transportation or lifting purpose. - The
second side wall 3 of thepackage 1 also comprises at least asecond gusset 42 comprising aninternal panel 43 and anexternal panel 44 together forming a second pocket. Thesecond side wall 3 further comprises a grippingmeans 45 being formed in or through theexternal panel 44. The gripping means 45 may be configured as an aperture and/or may be configured as aslit 46, whereby the gripping means may take various shapes as long as it ensured, that one or more fingers of a person's hand fit through the gripping means 45 to allow lifting and transporting thepackage 1. The gripping means 45 may be formed as an aperture by removing a portion of theexternal panel 44. Alternatively, the grippingmeans 45 may be formed as a slit in or through theexternal panel 14, i.e. without removing any material when forming the grippingmeans 45. - Moreover, the gripping means 45 can be formed as a weakened area, such as an area being at least partially circumvented by a
structural weakening 50, such as a perforation. In such an embodiment, the perforation or structural weakening may be transformed into a slit when a user, intending to lift thepackage 1, is gripping through the pocket orgusset 42 with his fingers, thereby at least partially breaking the perforation. In these embodiments, the one or more fingers of a person of course only have to fit through the grippingmeans 45 after the perforation has been broken. As illustrated inFigure 3 , the gripping means comprises a substantially horizontally aligned slit adjacent alower edge 51 of an upper portion of theexternal panel 44, which forms a strap extending across the entire width of theside wall 3 adjacent to theupper edge 8 of theside wall 3. - In an alternative embodiment, as e.g. depicted in
Figure 9 , the grippingmeans 45 comprises a substantially oval- or rectangular-like shape, wherein aninner portion 46 is entirely circumvented by astructural weakening 50 being in turn encompassed by a structure ofreinforcement 52. Thestrap 49 of theexternal panel 44 is that part of thesecond side wall 3 extending in height from an upper edge of the aperture or theslit 46 of the gripping means 45 to theupper edge 8 of theexternal panel 44. Thestrap 49 is adapted to be grasped manually from below in order to lift thepackage 1. - Furthermore, the
strap 49 may also be grasped from above to lift thepackage 1. Hence, the user may enter with his finger(s) into the pocket orgusset 42 from theupper edge 8 between theinternal panel 43 and theexternal panel 44. As the finger tips proceed they may reach through or they may penetrate theexternal panel 44 in the region of the gripping means 45 being designed as an aperture or being alternatively designed as a structural weakening to be broken upon a first gripping. - In any gripping manner, the hand of the user is clasped around the
strap 49 allowing for an easy and intuitive raising and transporting of thepackage 1. Thestrap 49 takes up the force manually applied and added directly above the grippingmeans 45. When a package is lifted up, thestrap 49 provides sufficient resistance to transfer the force to the rest of theside wall 3 and to thepackage 1 without tearing or disassembling thestrap 49 or therespective side wall 3. Thus, unintentional opening of thepackage 1 can be effectively prevented. - Since the
strap 49 and its associatedgripping means 45 are separately designed and arranged with respect to the tearing means 11, thestrap 49 and its gripping function is nearly not affected by an opening of thepackage 1 at the opposingside wall 2. Therefore, even after thepackage 1 has been opened, thestrap 49 can still be used to assist in lifting or transporting thepackage 1. - The height of the
strap 49 extending from the gripping means 45 to theupper edge 47 of theexternal panel 44 and hence to theupper edge 8 of theside wall 3 may range from 10 millimetres to 50 millimetres. These dimensions allow for convenient carrying and ensure that thestrap 49 does not tear apart upon lifting of thepackage 1. The gripping means 45 may have an upper edge corresponding to thelower edge 51 of thestrap 49. - As further illustrated in
Figures 3 and8 , the grippingmeans 45 is formed through or in theexternal panel 44 of thesecond gusset 42. Hence, a portion of the pocket, which is covered by thegusset 42, extends from a lower edge of the gripping means 45 towards thelower edge 9 of theside wall 3. If the pocket takes the form of a downward pointing triangle, a portion of the pocket extending from a lower edge of the gripping means 45 downwards will also take the form of a, however smaller, triangle. This smaller triangle can be further used to slit at least a part of a user's finger into, providing a universal way of gripping and lifting thepackage 1. - The way, the
gusset 42 is configured in thesecond side wall 3, is well-known in the art. Theexternal panel 44 comprises two layers, an inner layer and an outer layer. Thegusset 42 has a triangle-shaped geometry and it is confined by twofold lines upper edge 47 of theexternal panel 44 as illustrated by way of example inFigure 3 . In order to reinforce the grippingmeans 45, the inner and the outer layers of theexternal panel 44 may be reinforced adjacent lateral and upper as well as lower edges of the grippingmeans 45. The structure ofreinforcement 52 as e.g. depicted inFigure 9 may be introduced by bonding, joining or connecting the inner and outer layer of theexternal panel 44 along a predetermined structure. The gripping means 45 as illustrated inFigure 9 comprises anaperture 46 being executed as a cut away of material over a region of approximately rectangular shape comprising oval or curved edges. Theaperture 46 is circumvented or surrounded by a closed structure ofreinforcement 52. However, thereinforcement structure 52 is not confined to such embodiments, wherein the grippingmeans 45 is designed as anaperture 46. Such reinforced gripping means can also be facilitated in any other way or embodiment as described above. - It may be desirable to reinforce the inner and outer layers of the
external panel 44 only adjacent thelower edge 51 of thestrap 49. In particular, it may be desirable to reinforce the layers in the respective lower area of thestrap 49 being adjacent the upper edge of the grippingmeans 45, since upon lifting up thepackage 1, thestrap 49 will typically experience the major strain compared to the gripping means 45 arranged below. - To reinforce the
external panel 44, e.g. in the vicinity of the grippingmeans 45, the inner and outer layer of theexternal panel 44 may be bonded to each other adjacent the entire upper and/or lower edge of the grippingmeans 45. Alternatively, the inner and outer layer may be bonded to each other at least adjacent the upper or lower edge of the grippingmeans 45. - The bonding of the inner and outer layers can be achieved, e.g. by adhesive bonding, pressure bonding as well as by means of thermal bonding or ultrasonic bonding, especially, if the flexible package is made of thermoplastic material. Other suitable bonding means known in the art are also within the scope of this invention. The bonding of the inner and outer layers can be done intermittently adjacent the edges of the gripping means 45 or can be executed as a continuous bonding line extending adjacent the upper and/or lower edge of the gripping
means 45. - There are several alternative ways of providing the package with gripping means. They do not necessarily have to be disposed at the
side wall 3 opposite to theside wall 2 comprising the tearing means 11. Alternatively, they may comprise a lug or a strap-handle being attached to the front or back wall of the package. Also, the gripping means may be attached o thetop wall 4. These alternative gripping means may further be detachably fixed to the package I and may be released for gripping purpose by a user interaction. -
Figures 4 through 6 , schematically illustrate a possible way of manufacturing theflexible package 1. The manufacture of thepackage 1 may start from an endless sheet travelling inmachine direction 58. The sheet as illustrated inFigure 4 and shown in cross section along A-A inFigure 5 is folded multiple times with respect to foldlines machine direction 58, comprises atwofold portion 57 and afourfold portion 56. The fold lines 54 and 55 extend inmachine direction 58 alongmachine direction 58. Incross machine direction 59, the sheet has a lateral ormarginal edge marginal edge 55 of thefourfold portion 56 is coextensive and therefore identical to thefold line 55. - The
fold line 55 therefore forms an upper marginal or lateral edge of the folded sheet, whereas theother fold line 54 separates thetwofold portion 57 and thefourfold portion 56. The folded sheet further has alower edge 66, which is at thetwofold portion 57. Thelower edge 66 of thetwofold portion 57 later on forms at least a part of the bottom wall of thepackage 1, whereas the opposingedge 55 of thefourfold portion 56 forms a portion of thetop wall 4 of thepackage 1. - The
fourfold portion 56 of the M-shaped folded sheet comprises twoouter layers layers twofold portion 57. Sandwiched between the twoouter layers fourfold portion 56 further comprises twoinner layers inner layers outer layers inner layers fold line 54 and eachinner layer outer layer fold line 55. - After having folded the endless sheet to an M-shaped fold comprising a
twofold portion 57 and an adjacentfourfold portion 56 incross machine direction 59, at least one line ofweakness layer fourfold portion 56 such that the lines of weakness are preferably introduced in the same location of the overlaying layers 61, 62, 63, 64. The line of weakness forms the tearing means 11 for providing anopening 35 in the at leastfirst side wall 2. The line ofweakness fourfold portion 56. Furthermore, at least oneouter layer fourfold portion 56 is partially bonded or connected with an adjacentinner layer articles 33 34 inside a filledpackage 1. - In general, it is sufficient to bond the at least one
outer layer inner layer fourfold portion 56 in a singular point or region typically in direct vicinity of the line ofweakness upper section 36 and twolateral sections outer layer 61 with the adjacentinner layer 63 and to bond theouter layer 62 with the adjacentinner layer 64 in an overlapping manner, whereby the adjacentinner layers outer layers - Bonding of adjacent outer and
inner layers weakness outer layers weakness fourfold portion 56. Alternatively, it is also possible to bond theadjacent layers weakness - After introduction of the at least one line of
weakness outer layers side seam cross machine direction 59. The side seam bonds and connects all layers of the respective twofold andfourfold portion second packages side seam layers twofold portion 57 as well as all fourlayers fourfold portion 56. Forming and generating of theside seam consecutive packages - By way of comparing the illustrations of
Figures 4 ,5 as well asFigures 7 and8 , the sealing of thevarious layers package 1 becomes apparent. Theside seam 53 and the cutting line separating adjacent andconsecutive packages first side seam 19 of thefirst side wall 2 of apackage 60 and thesecond side seam 39 of asecond side wall 3 of aconsecutive package 65. Both side seams 19 and 39 connectouter layers side walls package 1. - Furthermore, the side seams 19, 39 are also bonding the two
inner layers Figures 1 and3 , these portions of theinner layers side seam external panel outer layers external panel internal panel 13 and itsupper section 36 of thefirst side wall 2 is entirely formed by theinner layers - Further, it is suggested to bond the
outer layers inner layers seam fourfold portion 56 of the endless sheet. Theseam fourfold portion 56. Typically, thisseam outer layer 61 with its adjacentinner layer 63 and theouter layer 62 with its adjacentinner layer 64. Bonding of adjacent outer andinner layers inner layers seam seams fourfold portion 56 of the endless sheet in an overlapping manner, after introducing theside seam consecutive packages line 53, theside wall 2, as illustrated inFigure 7 , has a substantially symmetric configuration with respect to theside seam 19. - Further, each
seam weakness opening 35 to be generated by the tearing means 11, respectively. - With respect to
Figure 7 , the lines ofweakness upper edge 6 of theside wall 2. The lines ofweakness straight section 27 at least extend into theseam external panel 14 as it extends above the crossing points of theseam weakness lateral edges external panel 14. Furthermore, the external panel may also be cut from anupper edge 6 of theside wall 2 adjacent theseam seam weakness section 48 of theexternal panel 14. By removing a triangle-shapedportion 48 being confined by the lateral edges 29, 30, theupper edge 6 of theside wall 2 and theseams external panel 14 providing an intuitive and universal tearing means 11 can be provided. - Alternative to the removal of the triangle-shaped
portion 48, theexternal panel 14 may comprise a slit or an additional line of weakness providing a separation of the flap-like appendix from theexternal panel 14. - The side seams 19, 39 extending substantially in
cross machine direction 59 as well as theseams various layers Figures 4 and6 , adjacent to the side seam 39 a structure ofreinforcement 52 extending into theside seam 39 may also be introduced into pairs of overlapping outer andinner layers structural weakening 50, which may typically designed as a perforation or a slit may be introduced adjacent the structure ofreinforcement 52. The structure ofreinforcement 52 may be introduced simultaneous with the structure of weakening 50. However, it may also be advantageous to introduce the structure ofreinforcement 52 before thestructural weakening 50 is applied to the endless sheet. - The structure of
reinforcement 52 may take any shape. It can be oval, circular, or may have a slit like geometry. Further, the structure ofreinforcement 52 should be disposed or arranged at a distance from theedge 55 of thefourfold portion 56. The distance between thestructural weakening 50 and thelateral edge 55 defines the height ofstrap 49 in the final package. Hence, theedge 55 corresponds to theupper edge side walls - The
outer layer 62 can be joined or bonded with its adjacentinner layer 64 by any kind of suitable joining or bonding means, such like ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding or pressure bonding. Accordingly, theouter layer 61 is joined or bonded with the adjacentinner layer 63. However, the twoinner layers inner layers - For a selective and systematic separation of the
inner layers outer layer 61 is bonded or joined with the adjacentinner layer 63 and when theouter layer 62 is bonded or joined with theinner layer 64 along the structure ofreinforcement 52. Especially when thermal or ultrasonic bonding is applied for introducing the structure ofreinforcement 52, it is advantageous to make use of heat resistant separating means, such as a heat resistant sheet which may optionally be the coated with a non-stick medium or with a non-stick coating. - In the illustrated embodiments, the structure of
reinforcement 52 is of closed shape and thestructural weakening 50 is adjacently arranged inside the structure ofreinforcement 52. Typically, the grippingmeans 12 and theaperture 37 or the slit are surrounded by the structure ofreinforcement 52. However, the structure ofreinforcement 52 does not have to completely encompass thestructural weakening 50. - The side seams 19, 39 extending in
cross machine direction 59 comprise a certain width inmachine direction 58. A combined width of both side seams 19, 39 is approximately between 3 and 10 millimetres allowing, that positioning of the side seams 19, 39 as well as positioning of the seam and cutline 53 does no longer need to be absolute precise but may vary within certain limits. Even though when the side seam is unequally divided into side seams 19, 53 ofconsecutive packages line 53, a sufficient seaming and sealing of therespective side walls packages fourfold portion 56 are wider in machine direction than theseam 53 being introduced in thetwofold portion 57 of the endless sheet. For instance, the combined width of theseams seam 53. The width of eachseam various layers adjacent packages weakness fourfold portion 56. The lines ofweakness twofold portion 57, respectively. The lines ofweakness layers fourfold portion 56 and thetwofold portion 57. Consequently, the lines ofweakness layers weakness bended portion 28 traverse thefold line 54 separating thetwofold portion 57 from thefourfold portion 56 of the endless sheet. After seaming and disassembling adjacently manufacturedpackages seam line 53 and after filling thepackages articles Figures 1 and7 , both extending across theseam -
Figure 6 schematically illustrates the twopackages figure 4 when not bonded or joined along the side seams 19, 39 and theseams Figure 6 only serves illustrative purposes; the configuration shown inFigure 6 does not occur during manufacture of the package according to the method of the present invention. - There, the two
outer sections Figure 5 , whereas theinner sections Figure 6 is only exemplary for illustration purpose. In a real life situation, theseams corresponding reinforcement structures 52 of thesections - The lines of
weakness outer sections inner sections layers weakness 15 extends into theseam 31 of thesection 64 and the second line ofweakness 16 extends into theseam 32 of thesection 63. A third line ofweakness 20 extends between the first and the second lines ofweakness package weakness 20 extends within theinternal panel 13 being almost entirely covered and overlaid by theexternal panel 14. - In the example of
Figure 4 , the lines ofweakness fold line 54. Insofar, in thefourfold portion 56, the lines ofweakness straight section 27 as well as a lowerbended section 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower residual part of the bended orcurved section 28 of a line ofweakness twofold portion 57 of the endless sheet. That part of thebended portion 28 of the lines ofweakness fourfold portion 56 transforms into apeak portion 24 and arespective notch 23 in theinternal panel 13 of theside wall 2. - The structure of
reinforcement 52 may be of arbitrary shape. It can be oval, circular, or may have a straight shape. Further, the structure ofreinforcement 52 should be disposed or arranged at a distance from thelateral edge 55 of thefourfold portion 56. The distance between thestructural weakening 50 and thelateral edge 55 defines the height of thestrap 49 of the second side wall3 of thepackage 1. - The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".
Claims (22)
- A flexible package (1) being capable of containing a multiplicity of articles (33, 34), the package (1) comprising a plurality of walls (2, 3, 4) including first and second opposing side walls (2, 3) having side seams (19, 39), each side wall (2, 3) having an upper edge (6, 8) and a lower edge (7, 9),
wherein at least a first gusset (12) is formed in at least the first side wall (2), the first gusset (12) comprising an internal panel (13) and an external panel (14) together forming a pocket,
wherein at least the first side wall (2) comprises tearing means (11) being at least partially formed in or through the external panel (14),
wherein the tearing means (11) is adapted to create an opening (35) in the first side wall (2), the opening (35) being confined by at least an upper section (36) of the internal panel (13) and by at least one, preferably two lateral section (37, 38) of the side wall (2),
wherein the lateral section (37, 38) and upper section (36) form a frame adapted to retain the articles (33, 34) inside the package (I) after creation of the opening (35), characterised in that at least one lateral edge of the upper section (36) of the internal panel (13) is at least partially bonded to an upper edge of the lateral section (37, 38) of the side wall (2). - The package according to claim 1, wherein the at least one lateral edge of the upper section (36) of the internal panel (13) and the upper edge of the lateral section (37, 38) of the first side wall (2) are configured in an abutting relationship.
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the upper section (36) and the lateral section (37, 38) are bonded along a seam (31, 32) extending from the opening (35) towards an edge (6, 17, 18) of the first side wall (2).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first side wall (2) comprises at least a first line of weakness (15, 16) separating the tearing means (11) and the at least one lateral section (37, 38) and wherein the line of weakness (15, 16) begins at an inner edge or at a location of the frame formed by the lateral section (37, 38) and the upper section (36) of the internal panel (13) of the side wall (2), and wherein the line of weakness (15, 16) extends towards a lower edge (7) of the first side wall (2).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims 3 or 4, wherein the first line of weakness (15, 16) extends to or across the seam (31, 32).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims 3 to 5, wherein the seam (31, 32) begins at an upper corner of the first side wall (2) and extends into the side seam (19) of the side wall (2), the side seam (19) lying substantially equidistant from lateral side edges (17,18) of the first side wall (2).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral extent of the upper edge of the external panel (14) is smaller than the distance between opposing side edges (17, 18) of the first side wall (2).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the external panel (14) has at least a first side edge (29, 30) extending into the seam (31, 32) and being aligned with the at least first line of weakness (15, 16).
- The package according to claim 8, wherein the external panel (14) being two-ply comprising an inner layer (63, 64) and an outer layer (61, 62), the inner and outer layers of the external panel (14) are bonded or seamed along the panel's (14) side edge (29, 30) and/or along a foldline (40, 41) encompassing the first gusset (12) towards the lower edge (7) of the first side wall (2).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tearing means (12) is substantially symmetric with respect to the side seam (19) and being laterally encompassed by the first (15) and by a second line of weakness (16) being connected by a third line of weakness (20) extending in the internal panel (13) of the gusset (12).
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the package comprises a gripping means.
- The package according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least a second gusset (42) is formed in the second side wall (3), the second gusset (42) comprising an internal panel (43) and an external panel (44) together forming a second pocket,
wherein the second side wall (3) comprises a gripping means (45) being formed in the external panel (44),
the external panel (44) further comprises a strap (49) adjacent to an upper edge (8) of the package (1) extending from an upper edge (51) of the gripping means (45) to an upper edge (47) of the external panel (44), the strap (49) extending over the whole width of the external panel (44) and being adapted to be grabbed by a user's hand. - - A method of manufacturing a flexible package (1) capable of containing a multiplicity of articles (33, 34), the package (1) comprises a plurality of walls (2, 3, 4) including first and second opposing side walls (2, 3) and further comprising at least a first gusset (12) in the first side wall (2), the first gusset (12) comprising an internal panel (13) being covered by an external panel (14), together forming a pocket, and wherein the first side wall (2) comprises a tearing means (11) being at least partially formed in or through the external panel (14), the method comprising the steps of:- providing an endless sheet travelling in a machine direction (58) and comprising in cross machine direction (59) a twofold portion (57) and a fourfold portion (56), the twofold portion (57) comprising two layers (61, 62) and the fourfold portion (56) comprising four layers (61, 62, 63, 64), wherein the outer layers (61, 62) of the fourfold portion (56) extend into the two layers (61, 62) of the twofold portion (57);- introducing at least one line of weakness (15, 16) in each layer (61, 62, 63, 64) of the fourfold portion (56), the line of weakness (15, 16) forms a tearing means (11) for providing an opening (35), in the side wall (2) the opening (35) being confined by at least an upper section (36) of the internal panel (13) and by at least a lateral section (37, 38) of the side wall (2), the upper and lateral sections (36, 37, 38) form a frame adapted to retain the articles (33, 34) inside the package (1) after creation of the opening (35),- at least partially bonding at least one outer layer (61, 62) of the fourfold portion (56) with an adjacent inner layer (63, 64) of the fourfold portion (56) for generating the frame,- seaming and cutting all layers (61, 62, 63, 64) of the twofold portion (57) and fourfold portion (56) along a side seam (19, 39, 53) extending in cross machine direction (59).
- The method according to claim 13, wherein both outer layers (61, 62) of the fourfold portion (56) are bonded with adjacent inner layers (63, 64) at least with one bond point the bond point being located along a seam (31, 32) beginning at a marginal fold line (55) of the folded sheet and extending towards the twofold portion (57), wherein the outer layers (61, 62) of the fourfold portion (56) merge into the inner layers (63, 64) of the fourfold portion (56) along the marginal fold line (55).
- The method according to claim 14, wherein a separating means or a separating agent is disposed between the inner layers (63, 64) of the fourfold portion (56) at least in the region of the seam (31, 32) before bonding the outer layers (61, 62) with the adjacent inner layers (63, 64).
- The method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the seam (31, 32) extends into the line of weakness (15, 16).
- The method according to any of the preceding claims 14 to 16, wherein the seam (31, 32) extends into the side seam (19) of the first side wall (2).
- The method according to any of the preceding claims 14 to 16, wherein a first structural weakening, a first cut or a first slit beginning at the marginal fold line (55) and extending into the seam (31, 32) is introduced into the fourfold portion (56), the first structural weakening, cut or slit being formed in the external panel (14).
- The method according to claim 18, wherein a second structural weakening, a second cut or a second slit beginning at the marginal fold line (55) and extending adjacent the seam (31, 32) is introduced into the fourfold portion (56), the first and second structural weakening, cut or slit mutually merge adjacent to the beginning of the line of weakness (15, 16).
- The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a cut (53) extending in cross machine direction (59) is introduced through all layers (61, 62, 63, 64), dividing a first side seam (19) of a first side wall (2) of a first package (60) and a second side seam (39) of second side wall (3) of a consecutive second package (65).
- The method according to claim 20, further comprising introducing a structural weakening (50) into the fourfold portion (56) at a distance from the marginal fold line (55), the structural weakening (50) being intersected by the second side seam (39) in machine direction (58), and/or lying adjacent the first or second side seam (19,39).
- The method according to claim 20, wherein a structure of reinforcement (52) is introduced adjacent the edges of the structural weakening (50) in the fourfold portion (56) by means of connecting the outer layers (61, 62) with the adjacent inner layers (63, 64) of the fourfold portion (56), while not connecting the inner layers (63, 64) to each other.
Priority Applications (11)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE602008002052T DE602008002052D1 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2008-04-14 | Flexible package with tear-off options |
AT08103521T ATE476375T1 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2008-04-14 | FLEXIBLE PACKAGE WITH TEAR-OFF OPTIONS |
ES08103521T ES2350020T3 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2008-04-14 | FLEXIBLE CONTAINER WITH MEANS OF WEAR. |
EP08103521A EP2110338B1 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2008-04-14 | Flexible Package with Tearing Means |
BRPI0911085A BRPI0911085A2 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | flexible packaging with tear medium |
MX2010011259A MX2010011259A (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | Flexible package with tearing means. |
US12/423,166 US8157095B2 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | Flexible package with tearing means |
JP2011503256A JP5085784B2 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | Flexible package with tearing means |
CN2009801132005A CN102007048B (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | Flexible package with tearing means |
CA2721036A CA2721036C (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | Flexible package with tearing means |
PCT/US2009/040429 WO2009129204A1 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2009-04-14 | Flexible package with tearing means |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP08103521A EP2110338B1 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2008-04-14 | Flexible Package with Tearing Means |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2110338A1 EP2110338A1 (en) | 2009-10-21 |
EP2110338B1 true EP2110338B1 (en) | 2010-08-04 |
Family
ID=39735042
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP08103521A Active EP2110338B1 (en) | 2008-04-14 | 2008-04-14 | Flexible Package with Tearing Means |
Country Status (11)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US8157095B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2110338B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5085784B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN102007048B (en) |
AT (1) | ATE476375T1 (en) |
BR (1) | BRPI0911085A2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2721036C (en) |
DE (1) | DE602008002052D1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2350020T3 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2010011259A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2009129204A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
IT1394473B1 (en) * | 2008-12-22 | 2012-07-05 | Resta Srl | PACKAGING FOR MATTRESSES AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE REALIZATION OF SUCH PACKAGING |
US8490793B2 (en) | 2011-06-22 | 2013-07-23 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Opening feature for packaging having absorbent articles contained therein |
JP5950702B2 (en) * | 2012-06-11 | 2016-07-13 | ユニ・チャーム株式会社 | Package |
US8873350B2 (en) * | 2012-07-27 | 2014-10-28 | Seagate Technology Llc | Heat assisted media recording apparatus with compensating heater |
WO2014039777A1 (en) * | 2012-09-06 | 2014-03-13 | Donmoyer Greg Edwin | Apparel pouch assembly |
US9771185B2 (en) | 2014-06-18 | 2017-09-26 | Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products Lp | Package with a multi-piece handle |
EP3012207B1 (en) * | 2014-10-21 | 2018-07-25 | The Procter and Gamble Company | Flexible package |
KR101868418B1 (en) * | 2017-01-06 | 2018-06-20 | 마니팜 주식회사 | APPARATUS FOR FORMING PATTERNS ON SURFACE OF fruits and vegetables |
JP7227699B2 (en) * | 2018-03-30 | 2023-02-22 | 大王製紙株式会社 | Collective package, gusseted packaging bag, and method for manufacturing gusseted packaging bag |
USD896634S1 (en) | 2019-01-29 | 2020-09-22 | Golden State Foods Corp. | Container |
USD896633S1 (en) | 2019-01-29 | 2020-09-22 | Golden State Foods Corp. | Container |
DE102019135698A1 (en) * | 2019-12-23 | 2021-06-24 | Paul Hartmann Ag | Cuboid pouch package comprising a pouch and a plurality of hygiene articles or medical documents or surgical articles received therein |
Family Cites Families (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JPS5996155U (en) * | 1982-12-21 | 1984-06-29 | 大王製紙株式会社 | Gazette bag with opening perforations |
CA1308392C (en) * | 1987-10-30 | 1992-10-06 | Francis Robert Feaver | Plastic carrier bag with cut-out carry handle |
GB8815330D0 (en) * | 1988-06-28 | 1988-08-03 | Procter & Gamble | Opening device for flexible bags filled with compressed flexible articles |
US4934535A (en) * | 1989-04-04 | 1990-06-19 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Easy open flexible bag filled with compressed flexible articles and method and apparatus for making same |
IT90067217A1 (en) * | 1990-03-23 | 1991-09-23 | Faricerca Spa | PACKAGING FOR HYGIENIC-SANITARY PRODUCTS, SUCH AS DISPOSABLE PANNOLINI AND THE LIKE. |
DE4028508C2 (en) * | 1990-09-07 | 1994-01-20 | Sengewald Karl H Gmbh | Pack, in particular for compressible packaged goods |
US5050742A (en) * | 1990-11-02 | 1991-09-24 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Easy opening package containing compressed flexible articles |
US5282687A (en) * | 1992-02-28 | 1994-02-01 | Kimberly-Clark Corporation | Flexible packaging with compression release, top opening feature |
DE4307842C2 (en) * | 1993-03-12 | 2000-01-20 | Kobusch Folien Gmbh | Packaging bags |
US5464285A (en) * | 1994-05-12 | 1995-11-07 | Venture Packaging, Inc. | Bag with perforated opening |
KR100244616B1 (en) * | 1995-01-24 | 2000-02-15 | 데이비드 엠 모이어 | Package containing absorbent articles |
JP4220076B2 (en) * | 1999-08-20 | 2009-02-04 | 大日本印刷株式会社 | Packaging bags for hygiene products |
US20020112982A1 (en) * | 2001-02-21 | 2002-08-22 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Flexible package and handle and method of using same |
JP4014475B2 (en) * | 2002-09-05 | 2007-11-28 | スーパーバッグ株式会社 | Sanitary packaging bag |
US7213710B2 (en) * | 2003-05-13 | 2007-05-08 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Package for compressible flat articles |
US7866473B2 (en) * | 2004-07-29 | 2011-01-11 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Flexible package having an easy opening feature |
US7168563B2 (en) * | 2004-11-08 | 2007-01-30 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Dispensing aid for facilitating removal of individual products from a compressed package |
US20060124494A1 (en) * | 2004-12-09 | 2006-06-15 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Shape retaining flexible package with easy access opening feature |
-
2008
- 2008-04-14 EP EP08103521A patent/EP2110338B1/en active Active
- 2008-04-14 ES ES08103521T patent/ES2350020T3/en active Active
- 2008-04-14 AT AT08103521T patent/ATE476375T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2008-04-14 DE DE602008002052T patent/DE602008002052D1/en active Active
-
2009
- 2009-04-14 MX MX2010011259A patent/MX2010011259A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2009-04-14 CN CN2009801132005A patent/CN102007048B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2009-04-14 WO PCT/US2009/040429 patent/WO2009129204A1/en active Application Filing
- 2009-04-14 JP JP2011503256A patent/JP5085784B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2009-04-14 BR BRPI0911085A patent/BRPI0911085A2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2009-04-14 US US12/423,166 patent/US8157095B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2009-04-14 CA CA2721036A patent/CA2721036C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JP5085784B2 (en) | 2012-11-28 |
WO2009129204A1 (en) | 2009-10-22 |
CN102007048A (en) | 2011-04-06 |
BRPI0911085A2 (en) | 2015-10-06 |
US20090257689A1 (en) | 2009-10-15 |
CN102007048B (en) | 2012-07-04 |
EP2110338A1 (en) | 2009-10-21 |
JP2011517435A (en) | 2011-06-09 |
ATE476375T1 (en) | 2010-08-15 |
US8157095B2 (en) | 2012-04-17 |
CA2721036C (en) | 2014-07-08 |
ES2350020T3 (en) | 2011-01-14 |
MX2010011259A (en) | 2010-11-09 |
DE602008002052D1 (en) | 2010-09-16 |
CA2721036A1 (en) | 2009-10-22 |
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